Sassafras
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Sassafras officinale is a tree native to North America whose root wood contains an aromatic essential oil. In historical medicine, it was used as a diaphoretic and diuretic, and in the treatment of skin diseases, rheumatism, and syphilis.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
SASSAFRAS, Sassafras officinale Nees, a tree up to 30 m in height, native to North America. The root wood, Lignum Sassafras, containing an essential oil of aromatic odor and taste, was used as a diaphoretic, diuretic, for skin diseases, rheumatism, syphilis, and was included in pectoral teas, decoctions, and many other medicinal forms.
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Cite this page
“Sassafras.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/sassafras/